SMU’s Second Century Celebration – a five-year period from 2011 through 2015 commemorating the 100th anniversary of the University’s founding and opening – was a historic opportunity to highlight SMU’s progress and growing international prominence in leadership, innovation, creativity and service.

The celebration helped shine a bright light on the achievements and contributions made by our students, faculty and alumni that have defined SMU as a top-tier institution based in Dallas and making a global impact. Special commemorations, including Year of the Library,Year of the Faculty and Year of the Student, celebrated the importance of key components of the University.

A central goal of the centennial commemoration was to shape SMU's next 100 years as one of the nation’s finest private universities through The Second Century Campaign, which ran concurrently. Thanks to the inspiring support of SMU alumni, parents and friends, the Campaign exceeded all goals, including surpassing its financial goal of raising $1 billion.

At the same time, The Second Century Celebration helped increase the University’s national and global prominence, calling greatly deserved attention to the University’s world-changing faculty and students and the remarkable quality of the SMU educational experience.

Thank you to everyone who participated in The Second Century Celebration, and who contributed to The Second Century Campaign. Because of your commitment and support, SMU can look forward to a remarkable next 100 years of achievement.

The Second Century Celebration

Make plans to join us for Founders' Day Weekend 2016, an opportunity to reconnect with professors, classmates and current students. The weekend offers a wide range of activities on the Hilltop, including the closing ceremonies of the Second Century Campaign, the opening and dedication of the Crain Family Centennial Promenade, and Inside SMU Powered by TEDxSMU, featuring presentations by esteemed faculty, alumni and students.

Donors who made a special gift during The Second Century Campaign will be recognized with an etched paver on the Crain Family Centennial Promenade, which will be unveiled during the closing celebration of the Campaign in April 2016. Please drop by campus to view the Promenade when it's complete, and read some of the fascinating stories behind the pavers.